Arza Clair Casselman (born February 19, 1891, Brinston, Ontario, Canada – died May 19, 1958) was a Canadian lawyer and politician who served as a Member of the House of Commons of Canada for over three decades and as the 22nd Speaker of the House of Commons from 1957 until his death in 1958.
Early Life and Education Arza Casselman was born in Brinston, Ontario, in the former Matilda Township (now part of South Dundas), to William David Casselman and Effie Janet Carlyle. He received his early education in local schools and later pursued a legal career. He graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto and was called to the bar in 1920. He subsequently established a successful law practice in Prescott, Ontario.
Political Career Casselman's political career began with his election to the House of Commons of Canada. He was first elected as a Conservative Member of Parliament (MP) for the riding of Grenville-Dundas in the 1921 federal election. He was a long-serving parliamentarian, holding his seat for multiple terms:
- 1921–1930: Elected as a Conservative.
- 1930–1935: Re-elected.
- 1935–1940: Re-elected. During this period, the Conservative Party was in opposition.
- 1940–1945: Re-elected.
- 1945–1949: Re-elected as a Progressive Conservative, following the party's renaming.
- 1949–1953: Re-elected.
- 1953–1957: Re-elected.
- 1957–1958: Re-elected.
During his tenure as an MP, Casselman was known for his dedication to his constituents and his contributions to parliamentary debate. He served primarily as a backbencher for much of his career but gained respect across party lines for his integrity and understanding of parliamentary procedure.
Speaker of the House of Commons Following the 1957 federal election, which saw the Progressive Conservatives form a minority government under John Diefenbaker, Arza Casselman was chosen to serve as the Speaker of the House of Commons. He was elected Speaker on October 14, 1957. As Speaker, he presided over the debates of the House, maintaining order and ensuring that parliamentary rules were followed impartially. His speakership, though brief, was marked by his fair and judicious handling of the House's proceedings.
Death and Legacy Arza Casselman died in office on May 19, 1958, at the age of 67, while still serving as Speaker of the House of Commons. His death prompted a by-election in his riding of Grenville-Dundas. He is remembered as a dedicated public servant and an individual who brought dignity and fairness to the role of Speaker.
References
- Parliament of Canada – Biographical Dictionary of Canadian Parliamentarians: [Link to official parliamentary profile, if available]
- Library and Archives Canada: [Link to relevant archives]
- Speakers of the House of Commons of Canada by Philip Laundy (book reference, if applicable)